'Canada's Got Talent' Lands Martin Short as Judge

The announcement was made Thursday morning on Breakfast Television and various radio shows across Canada that the Emmy- and Tony Award-winning star will join the judges' panel for the highly anticipated Citytv series. Short's diverse career will not only help him dole out words of wisdom to the contestants in the talent competition, but he will undoubtedly also provide a few laughs.

"Don't take it personally ... it's only show business," said Short of his new role. "And if you've ever seen me perform, you'll know that my personal motto is 'Always leave the audience wanting less.'"

The Ontario native has been tickling funny bones for decades, quickly making a name for himself with The Second City, 'SCTV' and then 'Saturday Night Live.' Short is famous for his celebrity impressions (Katharine Hepburn, Jerry Lewis) as well as his own original creations (Ed Grimley, Jiminy Glick). The actor-comedian's work on 'SCTV' earned him and his fellow castmates two Emmy nominations (they won in 1981), but it was his recent dramatic turn on the FX series 'Damages' that netted Short his third Emmy nod.

Back in 1994, Short was awarded the Order of Canada, and six years later, he received a star on Canada's Walk of Fame, and is unquestionably one of the country's funniest and most talented performers.

"Martin Short is one of Canada's all-time favorite artists and his quick wit, enthusiasm and comedic ingenuity are legendary," said Ed Robinson, executive producer of 'Canada's Got Talent.' "He is an influential and proud Canadian who never forgot his roots, and we are ecstatic to have him as a judge."

Co-executive producer John Brunton of Insight Productions couldn't agree more. "Marty's the classic triple threat. He's one of the most accomplished comedians in history.

"He's conquered Broadway and Hollywood, winning Emmys and Tonys, and he has one of the funniest wits in showbiz. We're thrilled that Marty will be coming home for 'Canada's Got Talent.'"

Short is the first judge to be announced for 'Talent,' which kicks off in March 2012. The remaining judges and host -- all reportedly well-known and high-profile -- will be announced in the coming days. Hey, isn't Leah Miller available?